You have drawings for a new home or an extension, and you’re ready to speak with a builder. Before requesting a price, take a moment to put your information into one clear project pack. It gives everyone a better starting point.
Start with the latest drawings
Gather the documents you already have and identify the latest revision. This might include floor plans, elevations, engineering information or a schedule of finishes. Make a separate list of anything still being developed. A builder can then see what is decided and what needs further discussion.
If a design professional prepared your drawings, check that you have permission to share and use them for the intended project.
Describe what matters to you
Drawings explain the layout; your brief explains how you want to live. Perhaps the priority is a more accessible ground floor, a kitchen that connects to the garden, or room for a growing family. Identify the essentials and the items you could reconsider.
Bring the site into the conversation
Share the property address and available site information. For a renovation, explain which parts of the existing home will remain and whether you hope to live there during construction. Flag access constraints or concerns you already know about, rather than assuming they are obvious from a floor plan.
Be clear about budget and timing
Explain whether your budget is for construction alone or also needs to cover design, approvals, landscaping and other costs. Give your preferred timing, while leaving room to discuss documentation, approvals and availability.
Check where approvals stand
Having drawings does not automatically mean a project is ready to build. Confirm the status of any planning and building approvals and record who will organise the next steps. Consumer Affairs Victoria explains that homeowners remain responsible for ensuring required permits are obtained, even when someone else arranges them.
You do not need every answer before making contact. Clearly separating what you know from what is still open makes the conversation more useful.
Further reading & sources
- Consumer Affairs Victoria — Plans and permits checklist
- Consumer Affairs Victoria — Building contracts checklist
Practical commentary is provided for general information about residential projects in Victoria. Project requirements and service scopes vary; confirm current requirements and obtain advice suited to your project.